Recently updated on January 17th, 2020 at 11:27 pm
Sitting inbetween the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea coast lies the vast ancient beauty of Myanmar. This Asian treasure is more historically known as Burma, and in recent years, has seen a great amount of change. Areas of ancient charm that were previously closed off to the outside world are now being opened up to discovery, and in turn, are becoming more freely available to explore. Whether you’re planning a trip to Myanmar in the near future, or fancy learning more about its breathtaking culture, below are 8 things you can discover in this area of Asia.
1. Learn the skill behind Kalaga tapestries
These beautifully handcrafted keepsakes are created by the local people of Myanmar, and will often depict from the Buddha’s journey towards enlightenment – the Jataka. Luxurious materials such as silk or velvet are used as a base, and are then embellished with beads or glass stones and intricate metallic thread.
2. See the Hsinbyume Paya
Be awe-struck by the stunning wave- like architecture of this beautiful pagoda. Sitting in the town of Mingun, the intricate structure of Hsinbyume Paya represents the seven mountain ranges around the scared mountain at the centre of the Buddhist universe, Mt. Meru, and it’s yours to wander.
Take a journey up to the highest part of Hsinbyume Paya, and witness a spectacular view of the Ayeyarwady River.
3. Watch the ways of the ‘one legged’ Intha fishermen
Working on the waters of the iconic Inle Lake are the enchanting Inthe fishermen. Watch for yourself as these skilled fishermen work with ease; rowing as they stand up with one leg wrapped around a single oar, leaving their hands free to manipulate the conical fishing net.
4. Witness the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda
Sitting on top of a granite gold boulder is one of the most iconic Buddhist pilgrimage sights in Myanmar, the astounding Kyaiktiyo Pagoda. Witness this shining spectacle in awe, and decide for yourself if this magical sight really defies gravity or not.
5. Give your taste buds a shakeup, try Mohingar
Every country has its own national dish. The British are quite partial to a Sunday roast, Italians have a notorious love for pasta. The people of Myanmar have Mohingar – an exotic fish broth filled with noodles, banana tree stem, lemongrass and catfish. This Burmese fish inspired dish is looked on by most as a comfort food, and is even eaten three times a day by some. Even if fish isn’t your food of choice, it’s a must try if you’re in the area.
6. Explore the world’s oldest pagoda
If you take a trip to lower Burma and find yourself in Yangon, make sure you put time aside to see the Shwedagon Pagoda. The gold plated beauty of the Shwedagon spans from as far back as 2600 years, and is said to contain eight hairs of the Buddha, the founder of the Buddhist religion . This is just one of the reasons that thousands of pilgrims travel to this spectacular structure each year.
7. Cross the U Bein Bridge
Sitting proudly on top of the beautiful waters of the Taungthaman Lake is the subtle historic structure of the U Bein Bridge, believed to be the longest and oldest teakwood bridges in the world. For peek viewing, take your feet for a wander over this historical pathway during the months of July and August, when the lake is usually at its highest.
8. Climb the Sagaing hill
Want to get one of the best views in Myanmar? Then the city of Sagaing should be your next stop. A small payment will allow you to climb the hill of this Southwest city at your own leisure. If you head up to the very top to the Soon Oo Ponya Shin Pagoda, you have the opportunity to take in the beauty from this iconic hill, and gaze down on the many pagodas that adorn it.
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